Moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) are the two main types of phono cartridges. They differ in their construction and how they generate an electrical signal.
Moving magnet cartridges
A moving magnet cartridge has a magnet that is fixed in place and a coil of wire that is attached to the stylus. When the stylus moves through the record groove, it creates a magnetic field that induces a voltage in the coil. This voltage is then amplified and sent to the speakers.
Moving coil cartridges
A moving coil cartridge has a coil of wire that is fixed in place and a magnet that is attached to the stylus. When the stylus moves through the record groove, it creates a magnetic field that moves the coil. This movement of the coil generates a voltage that is then amplified and sent to the speakers.
How to tell MM or MC cartridge
There are a few ways to tell if a cartridge is MM or MC.
- Number of pins: MM cartridges typically have two pins, while MC cartridges typically have four pins.
- Stylus tip: MM cartridges typically have a diamond stylus tip, while MC cartridges can have either a diamond or a sapphire stylus tip.
- Cartridge body: MM cartridges typically have a larger cartridge body than MC cartridges.
- Cartridge label: The cartridge label will typically indicate whether the cartridge is MM or MC.
If you are not sure whether a cartridge is MM or MC, you can always consult the manufacturer’s specifications.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- MM cartridges are generally less expensive than MC cartridges.
- MC cartridges are typically more sensitive than MM cartridges, which means they can produce a better signal-to-noise ratio.
- MC cartridges require a more powerful phono preamp than MM cartridges.